Graduate Tuition & Merit Based Aid

Korbel is proud to recognize the service and experience AmeriCorps alumni bring to our graduate community.

AmeriCorps alumni may be considered for:

• An application fee waiver
• A scholarship with a total value approximately equivalent up to 50% of tuition costs

Eligibility and scholarship consideration

For consideration, applicants should:

• Have completed qualifying AmeriCorps service and identify their AmeriCorps affiliation in the Affiliations section of the graduate application and on the résumé submitted with their application.
• Submit a complete application by the published priority deadline for their intended start term.
• Have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher for best scholarship consideration.

Korbel uses a holistic review process when making scholarship decisions. GPA is not the sole factor considered, and meeting the criteria above does not guarantee an award.

Scholarships are awarded as a total dollar amount. Any percentage listed above is provided to illustrate the approximate value of the award relative to tuition and does not represent a percentage tuition discount.

Korbel is committed to making graduate education more accessible to students who call Colorado home through the Colorado Advantage Scholarship.

Eligible Colorado residents may be considered for:

• An application fee waiver
• A tuition-only Korbel scholarship with a total value up to approximately 50% of tuition costs

Eligibility and scholarship consideration

• To be eligible, applicants must have a permanent residence in Colorado.

For best scholarship consideration, applicants should:

• Submit a complete application by the published priority deadline for their intended start term.
• Have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher.
• Demonstrate strong academic and/or professional experience.
• Be in good academic and disciplinary standing.

Korbel uses a holistic review process when making scholarship decisions. GPA is not the sole factor considered, and applicants who do not meet every consideration listed above may still be considered for an award. Meeting the eligibility and scholarship consideration criteria does not guarantee an award.

Colorado Advantage scholarships apply to eligible tuition costs only and do not cover fees or other educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded as a total dollar amount. The percentage listed above is provided to illustrate the approximate maximum value of the award relative to tuition and does not represent a percentage tuition discount.

Korbel welcomes Fulbright participants and alumni from around the world and works with Fulbright offices to provide scholarship support for eligible students.

Eligible Fulbright participants and alumni may be considered for:

• An application fee waiver
• A tuition-only Korbel scholarship with a total value approximately equivalent up to 30% of tuition costs
• Additional scholarship support for highly competitive applicants, based on the strength of the application and availability of scholarship resources

Eligibility and scholarship consideration

Applicants should:

• Identify their Fulbright affiliation in the Affiliations section of the graduate application and include their Fulbright experience on the résumé submitted with their application.
• Submit a complete application by the published priority deadline for their intended start term.
• Have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher for best scholarship consideration.

Korbel may verify an applicant's Fulbright status with the applicable Fulbright office or request documentation of participation. Scholarship eligibility and any associated award are contingent upon verification of qualifying Fulbright status.

Korbel uses a holistic review process when making scholarship decisions. GPA is not the sole factor considered. Applicants with particularly strong academic, professional, or other relevant qualifications may be considered for scholarship support beyond the standard Fulbright award, subject to the availability of scholarship resources.

Scholarships apply to eligible tuition costs only and do not cover fees or other educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded as a total dollar amount. Any percentage listed above is provided to illustrate the approximate value of the award relative to tuition and does not represent a percentage tuition discount.

Korbel partners with select institutions to provide eligible students with an accelerated and more affordable pathway to a Korbel graduate degree. These partnerships are based on academic alignment between participating undergraduate programs and Korbel graduate programs, including the identification of undergraduate coursework that meets specific Korbel graduate degree requirements. Eligibility is based on completion of the academic requirements established in each partnership agreement.

Through participating Pathways programs, eligible students may benefit from:

• A reduced 48-credit graduate degree requirement rather than the standard 60-credit requirement
• An application fee waiver
• A tuition-only Korbel scholarship

Current Pathways partnerships include:

• Colorado Mesa University
• Colorado State University Pueblo
• Metropolitan State University of Denver

Each Pathways partnership has specific undergraduate coursework, academic requirements, application requirements, and other conditions. Students must complete the requirements established through their institution's Pathways partnership to receive the associated benefits.

Interested in a Pathways program?

Please contact the Korbel Office of Graduate Enrollment for current information about your institution's partnership, including required courses, eligibility requirements, application instructions, and scholarship benefits.

Final eligibility, degree requirements, scholarship value, and other benefits are subject to the applicable Pathways partnership agreement.

Korbel has one of the largest and longest-standing Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) communities in the United States and is proud to participate in the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program.

The Coverdell Fellows Program recognizes the professional and cross-cultural experience gained through qualifying Peace Corps service and supports Returned Peace Corps Volunteers pursuing graduate education.

Eligible Returned Peace Corps Volunteers admitted to a Korbel master's program receive:

• An application fee waiver
• A tuition-only Korbel scholarship with a total value approximately equivalent up to 30% of tuition costs
• If desired, a reduction in required internship hours from 150 to 75, as applicable to degree requirements

Eligibility

Applicants should:

• Have qualifying Returned Peace Corps Volunteer status under the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program.
• Identify their Peace Corps affiliation in the Affiliations section of the graduate application and include their Peace Corps service on the résumé submitted with their application.
• Meet the admission requirements for their intended Korbel master's program.

Korbel may verify an applicant's Returned Peace Corps Volunteer status. Eligibility for Coverdell benefits is contingent upon verification of qualifying status and satisfaction of applicable Coverdell Fellows Program requirements.

Coverdell scholarships apply to eligible tuition costs only and do not cover fees or other educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded as a total dollar amount. The percentage listed above is provided to illustrate the approximate value of the award relative to tuition and does not represent a percentage tuition discount.

Final eligibility and program benefits are subject to applicable Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program requirements and the terms of Korbel's participation in the program.

PPIA students bring strong academic preparation and a demonstrated commitment to public service, qualities that align closely with Korbel's graduate programs and community. We encourage PPIA students to consider Korbel as the next step in their academic and professional journey.

Eligible PPIA participants may be considered for:

• An application fee waiver
• A tuition-only Korbel scholarship with a total value up to approximately 50% of tuition costs

Eligibility and scholarship consideration

Applicants who wish to be considered for the PPIA scholarship should:

• Identify PPIA affiliation in the Affiliations section of the graduate application.
• Submit  Junior Summer Institute (JSI) transcript with the Korbel graduate application.
• Submit a complete application by the published priority deadline for the intended start term.
• Demonstrate strong academic performance.

Submission of the JSI transcript is optional for admission but required for consideration for the PPIA scholarship. Applicants who choose not to submit a JSI transcript will not be disadvantaged in the admission process. If submitted, academic performance in the JSI will be considered alongside the applicant's undergraduate academic record and other application materials as part of Korbel's holistic admission and scholarship review.

Korbel may verify an applicant's PPIA participation. Scholarship eligibility and any associated award are contingent upon verification of qualifying PPIA status.

Meeting the eligibility and scholarship consideration criteria does not guarantee admission, a scholarship, or a particular award amount.

Scholarships apply to eligible tuition costs only and do not cover fees or other educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded as a total dollar amount. The percentage listed above is provided to illustrate the approximate maximum value of the award relative to tuition and does not represent a percentage tuition discount.

A career in public service can begin at Korbel. The Robertson Foundation for Government Fellowship supports exceptional graduate students committed to careers in government and public service addressing international and cross-border challenges.  

Offered in partnership with the Robertson Foundation for Government, this highly competitive fellowship provides full tuition support, an annual stipend, and access to a national network of public service professionals and alumni.   

Selected 2027* Robertson Fellows receive: 

• 100% tuition coverage for up to 60 eligible graduate credits toward an approved, full-time, in-person, two-year Korbel master's degree. 
• A $7,500 annual stipend, distributed in $2,500 installments during the fall, winter, and spring quarters, for a total of $15,000 over two academic years. 
• Participation in an annual, three-day Robertson Fellowship gathering in Washington, D.C., held each autumn, with travel and accommodation provided. 
• Professional development and networking opportunities through the Robertson Foundation's national community of fellows and alumni. 

 Robertson Fellows are not required to hold a graduate assistantship or perform work in exchange for their fellowship award. 

 *Fellowship tuition award values and stipend amounts are reviewed annually and may be adjusted for future fellowship cohorts. 

 Eligibility Requirements 

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must: 

• Be a U.S. citizen. 
• Apply to and be admitted to an eligible, full-time, in-person, two-year Korbel master's degree program. 
• Demonstrate a commitment to pursuing a career in government or government-related public service addressing international affairs or cross-border policy challenges. 
• Commit to demonstrating functional proficiency in at least one foreign language before graduation. 
• Commit to completing at least three years of qualifying full-time public service employment within seven years following graduation. 
• Agree to the academic, professional, and participation requirements outlined in the Robertson Foundation for Government Fellow Agreement. 

Foreign-language proficiency: Applicants who have completed foreign-language coursework through the 202 level or demonstrate equivalent functional proficiency at the time of admission are preferred, but this is not required for fellowship consideration.  

Qualifying public service employment generally includes positions with federal, state, or local government agencies and international governmental organizations addressing international or cross-border challenges. Certain positions with nonprofit organizations, think tanks, trade commissions, and professional or membership associations may also qualify.   

Scholarship Consideration 

The Robertson Fellowship is highly competitive, with only 2 awarded annually. 

 There is no minimum GPA requirement. However, applicants with the strongest academic and professional records will receive the greatest consideration. Students that apply by the deadline with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of approximately 3.5 or higher, combined with meaningful professional, leadership, or public service experience, are generally best positioned for consideration. 

 Competitive applicants will demonstrate: 

• Strong academic performance and significant professional accomplishments. 
• A sustained commitment to government or government-related public service. 
• Leadership potential, cultural awareness, collaboration, and a global perspective. 
• Relevant professional, internship, volunteer, or research experience. 
• Foreign-language proficiency through the 202 level or a plan to gain foreign language fluency.  
• A clear commitment to contributing to the Robertson Fellows community and alumni network. 
• Preference may also be given to students entering in the summer or fall to maximize participation in fellowship programming. 

Korbel uses a holistic review process when selecting Robertson Fellows. Meeting the eligibility requirements or preferred qualifications does not guarantee an award. 

Fellowship Expectations 

Selected Robertson Fellows are expected to: 

• Complete their approved full-time, two-year master's degree program and maintain satisfactory academic progress. 
• Remain in Good Academic Standing and abide by the Student Code of Conduct.  
• Participate in the virtual Robertson orientation and annual fellowship gathering in Washington, D.C., as well as additional programming when feasible. 
• Demonstrate functional proficiency in at least one foreign language before graduation. 
• Complete three years of qualifying full-time public service employment within seven years following graduation. 
• Maintain current contact information and provide employment updates to Korbel and the Robertson Foundation for up to seven years following graduation. 
• Serve as representatives of the fellowship and contribute to the Robertson Fellows community and alumni network. 
• Provide a professional headshot and brief biography and participate in reasonable fellowship-related communications and promotional activities, subject to applicable consent requirements.  

Selected students will receive the full fellowship requirements in writing and must sign the Robertson Foundation for Government Fellow Agreement before beginning their graduate program. 

How to Apply 

Unlike Korbel's general merit scholarships, the Robertson Fellowship requires a supplemental application within the general graduate application. 

To be considered: 

1. Begin your graduate application. Apply to an eligible, full-time, in-person, two-year Korbel master's degree program. 
2. Complete the Robertson Fellowship supplemental application. Within your graduate application, indicate your interest in the fellowship, confirm your eligibility, and complete the required supplemental questions. 
3. Submit your supplemental essay. Provide a 500–800-word essay addressing your commitment to public service, professional goals, and potential contributions to the Robertson Fellows community. 
4. Submission Deadline and Notification: March 1, 2027. If selected students will be notified prior to the April 15 reply deadline. 

Robertson Fellowship Supplemental Essay (500–800 words) 

The Robertson Fellowship supports individuals committed to careers in government and government-related public service addressing international or cross-border challenges.  

Describe the experiences that have shaped your commitment to public service. Drawing on specific examples from your professional, academic, volunteer, or leadership experiences, explain how you have demonstrated this commitment and what you hope to accomplish through a career in government or government-related public service. 

Identify the types of institutions, roles, or policy challenges you hope to pursue after graduation and explain how your goals align with the Robertson Fellowship's mission. 

Robertson Fellows are also expected to serve as ambassadors for the fellowship and contribute to its broader community of scholars, public service professionals, and alumni. Describe the qualities, perspectives, and experiences you would bring to this community and how you would contribute meaningfully to the Robertson Fellows network during your graduate studies and throughout your professional career. 

Admission to Korbel and selection for the Robertson Fellowship are separate decisions. 

Students may receive an admission decision and an initial Korbel merit scholarship offer before Robertson Fellowship selections are finalized. 

If selected, the Robertson Fellowship will supersede and replace any previously offered Korbel institutional merit scholarship. These awards cannot be combined or stacked.  

Selected fellows will receive written notification outlining their fellowship award, financial benefits, and applicable terms and conditions. 

The Clarke Diplomatic Security Fellowship supports students preparing for careers in diplomatic security and public service through graduate education and professional development.

Eligible Clarke DS Fellows receive:

• An application fee waiver
• A tuition-only Korbel scholarship with a value up to approximately 40% of tuition costs
• Scholarship support to cover the required DU student health insurance fee

Eligibility
Applicants should:

• Be selected as a Clarke Diplomatic Security Fellow.
• Identify Clarke DS Fellow status in the graduate application.
• Submit documentation confirming selection as a Clarke DS Fellow.
• Apply to and enroll full-time in an eligible Korbel master's degree program.
• Meet all admission requirements for the selected graduate program

Scholarship benefits are awarded for the first year of study and may be renewed for the second year provided the student remains a Clarke DS Fellow, remains in good academic standing in an approved degree program, and maintains a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2.

Fellowship benefits are contingent upon verification of qualifying status and are provided in accordance with the applicable fellowship agreement.

Scholarships apply to eligible tuition costs and the required DU student health insurance fee as described above. Tuition scholarships are awarded as a dollar amount. The percentage listed above represents the approximate maximum value of the tuition scholarship and does not represent a percentage tuition discount.

The University of Denver participates in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program at the unlimited level for undergraduate and graduate programs.

For eligible Korbel students:

• Students must qualify for the 100% benefit level under the Post-9/11 GI Bill®.
• For students determined eligible by the VA, Post-9/11 GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon funding combine to cover the total cost of tuition.
• Yellow Ribbon eligibility and benefits are determined according to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs requirements and University of Denver participation terms.

Eligible veterans and dependents can learn more about Yellow Ribbon benefits, eligibility requirements, and support available through the University of Denver's Veterans Services office.

Questions about Yellow Ribbon benefits?

Contact DU Veterans Services at [email protected]

• Korbel considers admitted master’s students for institutional merit scholarships and other funding opportunities based on eligibility and available scholarship resources. Applicants are encouraged to apply by the published priority deadline for the strongest scholarship consideration. 
• Korbel merit scholarships are available to students enrolled in eligible graduate degree programs. Standalone graduate certificates are not eligible for Korbel merit scholarships unless otherwise specified.
• Scholarship decisions are based on a holistic review of the application. Academic performance, professional experience, program fit, and other relevant qualifications may be considered.
• A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher is generally recommended for the strongest scholarship consideration, but GPA is not the sole factor considered in admission or financial aid decisions.
• Meeting the eligibility criteria for a scholarship does not guarantee an award or a particular award amount unless specifically stated.
• Korbel institutional scholarships cannot be combined with one another. Students eligible for more than one Korbel award will receive the single highest-value Korbel scholarship for which they are selected.
• Korbel scholarships apply only to eligible graduate credits required for degree completion and included in the approved academic program plan.
• Scholarship funding cannot exceed eligible tuition charges for the applicable enrollment period.
• Changes in enrollment or the approved academic program plan may affect scholarship eligibility or the amount available in a given term.
• External funding may generally be used in addition to Korbel scholarship support, subject to applicable University, federal, and external funding requirements.
• Scholarships are awarded as a total dollar amount. Any percentages shown on this page or in advertising illustrate the approximate value or maximum value of an award relative to tuition and do not represent a percentage tuition discount.
• Official scholarship eligibility, award amounts, and terms are communicated in the admission and scholarship materials provided to admitted students. Additional information about disbursement, renewal, enrollment requirements, and maintaining eligibility is provided to admitted students.